Class contract signed for two Royal Caribbean ships powered by LNG and fuel cells

'The ships could potentially be some of the most fuel-efficient cruise vessels ever constructed', says DNV GL.

Image credit: DNV GL

Updated on 08 May 2018 13:51 GMT

Finland's Meyer Turku Shipyard and DNV GL have signed a contract for the classification of Royal Caribbean's new ICON-class vessels. The contract covers two ships with delivery scheduled for 2022 and 2024.

LNG is envisioned as the primary fuel for the new vessels, whilst fuel cell technology is to also be introduced in addition to hull air lubrication for improved fuel efficiency.

According to DNV GL, "the ships could potentially be some of the most fuel-efficient cruise vessels ever constructed".

Knut Orbeck-Nilssen, CEO of DNV GL - Maritime, said: "These ships are set to push the envelope of what we can expect from a modern cruise vessel in terms of environmental performance, and we are looking forward to supporting Royal Caribbean and Meyer Turku to realise a successful delivery."

Paal Johansen, Global Cruise Ship Director, DNV GL - Maritime, remarked: "This signing shows that Royal Caribbean trusts us to deliver on their most ambitious project yet, and it is a testament to the strong relationship between Meyer Turku, our local office in Finland and our wider network of cruise experts.

"Following on from the delivery of the Symphony of the Seas, the largest cruise ship ever built, we look forward to continuing to deliver on our promise to provide the best service and deep technical expertise."

The final concept for the first vessel is currently being discussed, and the concept design phase is expected to start this spring.

The initial building phase of the first ship is due to begin next year, with keel laying planned for October 2019.